WHOA DAD! GO DAD! – Details, episodes & analysis

What happens when a man realizes… he’s the problem?"You don’t fix your marriage by fixing your partner.You fix it by becoming the man the relationship requires."In this raw and powerful conversation, I sit down with G. Vidal—father, husband, and creator of Alpha Dad Consulting—to unpack the moment his marriage nearly fell apart… and the decision that changed everything.After discovering betrayal early in his marriage, G spiraled into control, insecurity, and desperation—trying to fix everything around him. But it wasn’t until a mentor told him a hard truth—“You can’t control her. You can only control yourself.”—that his life began to transform.What followed wasn’t quick. It took years.Years of rebuilding trust.Years of changing behavior.Years of becoming a different man.And on the other side?A 15-year marriage.Four kids.A brotherhood of men.And a rediscovered creative fire—now expressed through music, leadership, and fatherhood.🔥 In this episode, we explore:-Why most men misunderstand leadership in marriage-The difference between control and responsibility-How attraction and trust are rebuilt (not demanded)-What it actually takes to recover from betrayal-The hidden cost of putting your wife at the center of your identity-Why men need purpose and creative expression—not just responsibility-How your children learn more from what you do than what you say🧠 This conversation is for you if:-You feel stuck or disconnected in your marriage-You want to become a more intentional husband and father-You’re navigating trust, conflict, or rebuilding-You know you’re capable of more—but haven’t acted on it yet-You’re ready to take ownership of your life, your leadership, and your future🔗 Connect with G. Vidal:Instagram: G. Vidal Musichttps://www.instagram.com/gvidalmusic/Music (Spotify / Apple): G. Vidalhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/4XPLpKJfEvfRkfpaUUKxH9?si=gzAdYbooQ_-Ll3-efq-olQYouTube: Alpha Dad Consultinghttps://www.youtube.com/@alphadadconsultingCheck out G's latest single: https://open.spotify.com/album/6BCuSt8CSpEFLA2GPMAGfp?si=tHl48TD1S5WmABrWf2TA8A📢 If this episode resonates:Share it with a dad, a husband, or a man who needs to hear it.And don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on leadership, fatherhood, and raising legends.Onward!-Dave MomperLeadership Coach and New Dadwww.thrivalconcepts.com#WhoaDadGoDad #RaisingLegends #IntentionalFatherhood #DadLeadership #LeadershipAtHome #ModernFatherhood #PresentDad #FatherhoodJourney #FamilyLeadership #MarriageLeadership #OwnYourShit #PersonalResponsibility #RebuildTrust #LeadYourMarriage #MarriageTransformation #EmotionalOwnership#MasculineLeadership #MenOfCharacter #PurposeDrivenMen #SovereignMen #ModernMasculinity #MarriageAdvice #RelationshipAdviceForMen #SelfImprovementDaily #GrowthMindset

In this episode of WHOA DAD! GO DAD!, I sit down with Dan Smith, founder of Voyage Rites, to explore one of the most important—and overlooked—responsibilities of fatherhood: guiding boys into manhood.Listen in to learn the 5 Things Fathers Must Do Before the Rite of Passage, and then how to construct bona fide rites of passage that signfy and invite manhood.This convo is so important to me. I see an impending lack of good men in the world, and simultaneously a rising tide of intentional fathers. In this pod we unpack what’s missing in modern culture when it comes to raising strong, grounded, and sovereign men—and why so many boys today are left searching for identity, purpose, and direction.Dan shares his personal journey from law enforcement and the FBI to building a movement focused on rites of passage for young men, along with the deeper realization that changed everything for him as a father of three boys.We dive into:-Why boys don’t automatically become men—and what’s been lost over the last 100+ years-The hidden impact of the Industrial Revolution on fatherhood and masculine development-How modern culture encourages passivity—and what it means to raise a sovereign young man-The psychological need for rites of passage (and how boys try to replace them in unhealthy ways)-What fathers can do today—at every stage of childhood—to prepare their sons for manhood-The difference between being a “good dad” and being an intentional fatherWe also break down Dan’s framework for guiding boys through a structured journey—from early childhood, to preparation, to initiation, and ultimately into adulthood.This is a conversation about responsibility, clarity, and stepping fully into the role of a father—not just as a provider, but as a true guide in their leadership journey.If you’re a father—or plan to be—this episode will challenge how you think about raising your sons and daughters.🔗 Connect with Dan Smith & Voyage Rites:Linedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-smith-307469322/Website: https://voyagerites.comExplore events, programs, and resources for fathers and sons🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on fatherhood, leadership, and raising legends.Onward!-Dave MomperLeadership Coach and Brand New Dadwww.thrivalconcepts.com#WhoaDadGoDad #RaisingLegends #IntentionalFatherhood #DadLeadership #LeadershipAtHome #ModernFatherhood #PresentDad #FatherhoodJourney #MarriageAndFamily#RiteOfPassage #RaisingMen #MasculineLeadership #StrongFathers #BoysToMen #PurposeDrivenMen #MenOfCharacter #SovereignMen #LegacyBuilding#ParentingBoys #FathersAndSons #NextGenerationLeaders #FamilyLeadership #LeadYourFamily

Welcome to a new year of "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" and Episode 32, where I delve into the intricacies of fatherhood and elite athletic pursuits with Cory Heitz. Cory brings a rich tapestry of experiences, from his upbringing in a family steeped in a rich basketball legacy to his formative years at the Air Force Academy and subsequent military service. These layers of his life profoundly shape his approach to parenting, coaching, and his business endeavors.

In this episode, we explore:

1. Cory's Unique Background: Raised in a family where basketball and military service were prevalent, Cory discusses how this environment fostered a mindset of discipline and excellence.

2. Transition from Military to Mentorship: Learn how Cory's military experience enhances his ability to prepare young athletes for the rigors of competitive sports and academics through specialized prep school programs (this is Cory’s professional forte: prepathletics.com).

3. Developing Future Leaders: Cory shares his professional journey as a consultant, helping families navigate the path to college basketball, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness and resilience.

4. Deep Dive into Fatherhood: Reflecting on his role as a father, Cory reveals how his experiences inform his parenting style, aiming to instill similar values of hard work and integrity in his children.

Cory shares a powerful reflection: "The discipline and dedication required in the military and sports are the same qualities I strive to pass on to my children."

Join us for this insightful discussion that bridges elite athletics, personal growth, and the transformative journey of fatherhood.

#EliteAthletics #Fatherhood #SportsParenting #MilitaryDiscipline #Leadership #CollegeBasketball #WHOADADGODAD

Welcome to Episode Thirty One with Cody Clickner

(Cody’s Dad Stats:  Three sons, ages 8, 6, and 1, and a 3-year-old daughter)

Welcome to episode 31 of "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" with Cody Clickner. After decades in the energy sector as a production engineer, Cody founded “Well Information Technologies” which is a modern job reporting tool for the Oil & Gas industry. Beyond being an energy entrepreneur, Cody is adventure seeker, husband, and father of four.

In this episode, Cody delves into his personal journey from having his career define his identity to re-centering his life around fatherhood. His story is a powerful reminder for new dads of the importance of making intentional choices that align with the kind of father you want to be. Cody openly discusses the struggles and revelations he faced while adjusting his priorities, providing practical advice for those navigating the early stages of fatherhood. Whether you're just entering this phase or are finding your footing, Cody's insights will help you understand the significant impact of your role and encourage you to shape it actively.

Cody shares the magic of building both a successful business and raising a family with his wife, and here are five topics that really caught my attention:

1. Identity and Career vs. Fatherhood: Cody discusses his transformation from identifying primarily through his career to prioritizing fatherhood. He shares the profound impact this shift has had on his personal happiness and family dynamics, encouraging fathers to evaluate and realign their priorities to foster better relationships at home.

2. The Importance of Patience and Presence: Throughout the conversation, Cody emphasizes the need for patience and being present as fundamental aspects of effective parenting. He talks about learning to adjust expectations and embrace the small, everyday moments with his children as opportunities for bonding and personal growth.

3. Leading by Example: Cody highlights the significance of leading by example rather than directive parenting. By reflecting on his own changes in behavior and what he models for his children, he illustrates how parental actions directly influence children's behavior and values.

4. Balancing Family and Entrepreneurial Endeavors: He shares his journey from a demanding oil and gas career to starting his own company, discussing how entrepreneurship allowed him to create a more family-oriented lifestyle. Cody’s story provides insights into the challenges and rewards of balancing professional aspirations with a commitment to family.

5. Development and Adaptation Over Time: Cody reflects on how his parenting style has evolved with the growth of his family from one child to four. He notes the differences in parenting each child, adapting to their individual needs, and the continuous learning process that parenting entails, underscoring the dynamic nature of fatherhood as children grow and change.

I can’t wait for you all to listen in!

Connect with Cody: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-clickner/

Onward!

-Dave Momper

Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad

www.thrivalconcepts.com 

#WhoaDadGoDad #ModernFatherhood #DadLifeAdventures #ParentingJourney #LegendaryDads #FatherhoodUnplugged #RaisingLegends #DadSupportSystem #NewDadChronicles #ParentingPartners #GrowthThroughFatherhood #DadLife #NewDad #DadGoals #ParentingTips #ParentLife #RaisingKids #ParentingWin #ModernParenting #LeadershipGoals #InspireLeadership, #LeadershipDevelopment #BeALeader #LeadershipMatters

Welcome to Episode Thirty with Scott Bain

(Scott’s Dad Stats: Two sons - ages 26 and 31)

Welcome to episode 30 of "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" with my confidant, Scott Bain. Scott was once my client when I ran business development for a video production company, and as the decades have piled up, it’s a treat to call him my friend and contemporary.

As you’ll hear in this episode, Scott is a bonafide student of life, and we get the good fortune of some of the deep wisdom he serves up from his thoughtful look in the rearview mirror.

Scott shares some truly candid anecdotes about becoming a great husband, becoming the best father he can be, becoming a strategic creative, and taking the most difficult leaps to become a victor of his own life.

Gosh, this was fun to re-listen to as I prepared it for publication!

Scott drops his knowledge on many great topics, and here are five that really caught me attention:

Adjusting to Different Parenting Styles: Scott found it challenging but necessary to adapt his parenting approach to meet the different personalities and needs of his two sons, particularly with his younger son who displayed a more creative and free-spirited nature.

Becoming a Spiritual Leader: Scott shares how he navigated stepping up to the expectations of being the spiritual leader in his family, an expectation set by his wife. This is a role he grew into over time, and he notes the importance of being actively involved in guiding the spiritual direction of his family.

Navigating Mental Health Awareness: Scott's younger son had friends who experienced severe mental health issues, including suicide. Scott found it challenging to address mental health adequately for himself and others, and shares the times where there was a gap in his ability to nurture and support his sons emotionally in this area.

Being Raised by His Grand Parents: Scott shares the nature of his upbringing, and we wander through how parental figures, the environment, the community, and even the times, all have a potential impact on how we perceive ourselves and the role of fatherhood.

Learning from Parenting Mistakes: Reflecting on his journey, Scott acknowledges the challenge of recognizing and learning from his parenting mistakes, striving to adapt and respond better to his children’s needs over time.These challenges highlight

Scott’s journey through the complexities of fatherhood, showcasing his commitment to growth and better understanding within his family dynamics.

I can’t wait for you all to listen in!

Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottbain/

Onward!

-Dave Momper

Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad

www.thrivalconcepts.com

#WhoaDadGoDad #ModernFatherhood #DadLifeAdventures #ParentingJourney #LegendaryDads #FatherhoodUnplugged #RaisingLegends #DadSupportSystem #NewDadChronicles #ParentingPartners #GrowthThroughFatherhood #DadLife #NewDad #DadGoals #ParentingTips #ParentLife #RaisingKids #ParentingWin #ModernParenting #LeadershipGoals #InspireLeadership, #LeadershipDevelopment #BeALeader #LeadershipMatters

This is Episode Twenty-Nine with Ryan Darilek

(Ryan’s Dad Stats: Seven sons - ages 7, 8, 17, 20, 20, 28 & 32)

Welcome to an intense and moving episode of "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" with my friend Ryan Darilek. Amongst several career endeavors, Ryan is the Chairman of EmBrave, an organization out of Colorado Springs that facilitates transformational improvement in the lives of people faced with homelessness, mental health difficulties, and justice-related issues. The organization is focused on bringing light to those in their darkest hour, and in a poetic set of events, Ryan was once a client of the organization.

The story Ryan shares is nothing short of surreal, and you’ll see how it had a massive impact on his perspective of life, and the ripple effect across hundreds if not thousands of lives.

On November 27, 2015, Ryan and his then-girlfriend Karen, experienced a harrowing ordeal at a Planned Parenthood clinic, a pivotal day that became a key turning point in in their lives, and a massive transformation for Ryan as a father, a partner, and a man.

They arrived at the clinic for a scheduled abortion, unaware that it would coincide with a violent attack. As you’ll hear, at one point, Ryan stepped out to the parking lot after getting a coffee at the nearby King Soopers, and encountered the shooter face to face. The shooter opened fire, targeting him directly and shooting at him seven times. Miraculously, Ryan was unharmed despite the close range and immediate danger.

Later on, inside the clinic, Karen was among those held hostage as the situation escalated into a full-blown standoff. The attack led to a tense and prolonged crisis, lasting about five hours, during which the couple tried desperately to maintain contact through texts and calls, piecing together fragmented updates about each other's safety. Their communication was fraught with uncertainty and fear, as they could not fully know or understand the ongoing events around them.

This critical incident not only marked a traumatic climax in their lives but also ignited Ryan's profound transformation and reaffirmation of his priorities and values.

Here are five key takeaways from Ryan powerful story and our discussion:

1. Resilience Through Personal Challenges: Ryan’s journey illustrates profound resilience, highlighting his ability to overcome severe personal crises, including alcoholism and legal troubles, and emerge with a renewed focus on contributing positively to society and his family.

2. The Importance of Personal Accountability: Ryan emphasizes taking responsibility for one's actions as a crucial step towards recovery and personal growth. His story is a testament to the transformative power of owning one’s past and making intentional efforts to change.

3. The Role of Support Systems: Throughout his narrative, the significance of support systems, whether through family, community organizations, or professional networks, is evident. Ryan’s turnaround was significantly aided by these supports, underscoring their value in successful rehabilitation.

4. Vulnerability and Open Communication: Ryan’s experiences underline the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of open communication. Sharing his struggles and triumphs has not only helped him heal but also inspired others to confront their challenges and seek help.

5. Impact of Fatherhood on Personal Growth: Ryan discusses how fatherhood has been a driving force for betterment in his life. His role as a father to seven boys has shaped his actions and motivations, focusing him on legacy, the values he imparts, and the example he sets.

These insights from the podcast provide valuable lessons for fathers and all listeners, emphasizing growth, responsibility, and the profound impact of our actions on ourselves and others, and I hope you enjoy!

Connect with Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandarilek/

Onward!-Dave Momper

Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad

www.thrivalconcepts.com

#WhoaDadGoDad

Welcome to Episode Twenty-Eight with Ken Lewis

(Ken’s Dad Stats:  Two daughters, ages 8 and 6) 

Welcome to another profoundly moving episode of "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" Today, we're joined by Ken Lewis, a former Air Force explosive ordinance disposal technician turned high-performance business coach and trainer. In this episode, Ken opens up with rare vulnerability about his transition from the high-stakes world of bomb disposal to the adventures and challenges of fatherhood.

For New Dads: Ken shares invaluable lessons on the art of high-performance under pressure, essential for new dads navigating the early days with their little ones. Learn how meticulous training and preparation in calm moments can prepare you for the chaos of parenting, emphasizing the importance of building trust and effective communication within your family unit. Ken’s heartfelt story is a testament to the strength it takes to switch roles from military to fatherhood, providing new dads strategies to manage stress and unpredictable situations with patience and grace.

For All Dads: Ken's journey resonates with fathers at any stage, highlighting the universal need for adaptability and situational awareness. His personal revelations about coming close to ending his own life, and how thinking of his daughters pulled him back, underscore a powerful message about the impact of mental health and the importance of seeking support. This episode not only covers how the disciplines from Ken’s military career can help in parenting but also how embracing vulnerability and shifting focus towards what truly matters—like family—can transform challenges into strength and leadership at home.

Ken’s story is not just about surviving fatherhood but about embracing it with courage, leading your family with heart, and building a legacy of resilience and emotional connection. Tune in to hear how you can apply lessons from high-stakes environments to everyday life, ensuring you’re always prepared, no matter what fatherhood throws your way.

Join us for this touching and educational episode on "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!", where we delve into the explosive yet enriching world of fatherhood with Ken Lewis.

Connect with Ken: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenllewis2/

Onward!

-Dave Momper

Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad

www.thrivalconcepts.com 

#WhoaDadGoDad #ModernFatherhood #DadLifeAdventures #ParentingJourney #LegendaryDads #FatherhoodUnplugged #RaisingLegends #DadSupportSystem #NewDadChronicles #ParentingPartners #GrowthThroughFatherhood #DadLife #NewDad #DadGoals #ParentingTips #ParentLife #RaisingKids #ParentingWin #ModernParenting #LeadershipGoals #InspireLeadership, #LeadershipDevelopment #BeALeader #LeadershipMatters

Welcome to Episode Twenty-Seven with Michael Collins

(Michael’s Dad Stats:  11-year-old  son, five-year-old daughter.) 

Hey, new dads and dad-veterans! Presenting you with another fantastic dive into the deep end of fatherhood on "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" This week, I’m thrilled to bring you an episode with Michael Collins, with a forte for storytelling and communications, who’s turned the art of improv into a phenomenal parenting tool.  

For the fledgling fathers like myself: Imagine fatherhood as a never-ending improv show where your tiny tots are the unpredictable co-stars. Michael teaches us the power of "yes, and" – the improv technique that transforms rigid parenting scripts into dynamic, playful engagements. You’ll learn how to roll with the punches, whether it's dealing with midnight meltdowns or the great vegetable standoff at dinner. Michael’s strategies aren't just about keeping the peace; they're about enriching your interactions with your children, making every day a bit more like play and a lot less like work.

For dads at all stages: Beyond the basics, Michael delves into how his background in storytelling and presentation has shaped his parenting approach, emphasizing that our kids and even our partners are our scene partners in the grand performance of life. Every interaction is a scene where cooperation, creativity, and sometimes a bit of comedic timing can turn daily challenges into memorable moments. Whether you’re navigating toddler temper tantrums or the delicate diplomacy of teenage dialogue, Michael’s insights will equip you to lead with love and laughter.

This episode is packed with laughs, learning, and a little bit of lunacy, as we explore how to make fatherhood the best kind of improv game where everyone—kids, dads, even moms—gets to shine.

Tune in as we discover that the script for the perfect dad doesn’t exist, but with a bit of improv, every day can be a candid masterpiece of fatherhood!

Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emichaelcollins/

Onward!

-Dave Momper

Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad

www.thrivalconcepts.com 

#WhoaDadGoDad #ModernFatherhood #DadLifeAdventures #ParentingJourney #LegendaryDads #FatherhoodUnplugged #RaisingLegends #DadSupportSystem #NewDadChronicles #ParentingPartners #GrowthThroughFatherhood #DadLife #NewDad #DadGoals #ParentingTips #ParentLife #RaisingKids #ParentingWin #ModernParenting #LeadershipGoals #InspireLeadership, #LeadershipDevelopment #BeALeader #LeadershipMatters

Welcome to Episode Twenty-Six with Josh Bonacci (Josh’s Dad Stats: Two sons, seven and five-and-a-half years old, and a three year old daughter.) Fathers and dad-fans, jump into this episode of "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" where I riff with the remarkable Josh Bonacci, a dad who's mastered the art of balancing a demanding career with the joys and challenges of fatherhood. Josh and I met in our college years where we bonded over Fight Club, lifting weights, and gin and tonics. It’s fun to look back and see how much more life and interests we have to bond over these days. As you’ll see, Josh has a very thoughtful approach to life and fatherhood. It was a treat to hear his take on the role! For new fathers, Josh's journey offers invaluable insights into navigating life changes while maintaining a strong family bond. You'll learn about managing career transitions across states, ensuring quality time with your kids amidst busy schedules, and the importance of being present and connected with your family even when you're miles away. For all dads, this episode serves as a reminder of the profound impact our careers and decisions have on our families. Josh discusses the strategic moves and personal sacrifices involved in relocating his family for a better job opportunity, emphasizing the importance of weighing personal ambitions against family happiness. He also shares practical advice on preparing children for big changes and maintaining closeness through frequent communication. This isn't just an episode about the logistics of a family move; it's a deep dive into making tough choices, fostering resilience, and nurturing a family environment that thrives on love, understanding, and patience. Whether you're a new dad or have been on this journey for a while, there's something in this episode for you. Join us to hear how one dad embraces the complexities of fatherhood while steering his family through life's big transitions. Connect with Josh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-bonacci-334b685/ Onward! -Dave Momper Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad www.thrivalconcepts.com #WhoaDadGoDad #ModernFatherhood #DadLifeAdventures #ParentingJourney #LegendaryDads #FatherhoodUnplugged #RaisingLegends #DadSupportSystem #NewDadChronicles #ParentingPartners #GrowthThroughFatherhood #DadLife #NewDad #DadGoals #ParentingTips #ParentLife #RaisingKids #ParentingWin #ModernParenting #LeadershipGoals #InspireLeadership, #LeadershipDevelopment #BeALeader #LeadershipMatters

Welcome to Episode Twenty-Five with Yours Truly

(My Dad Stats: 13 Month-Old Son) 

In honor of one year as a father and hitting 25 episodes, here are 20 questions and my candid answers as I reflect on the past year being a new dad, as well as the wisdom I've gathered from 24 podcast conversations with other dads. This was a fun exercise for me to reflect and think deeply about what I've learned and what the experience has been stepping into fatherhood. 

Onward!

-Dave Momper

Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad

www.thrivalconcepts.com 

#WhoaDadGoDad #ModernFatherhood #DadLifeAdventures #ParentingJourney #LegendaryDads #FatherhoodUnplugged #RaisingLegends #DadSupportSystem #NewDadChronicles #ParentingPartners #GrowthThroughFatherhood #DadLife #NewDad #DadGoals #ParentingTips #ParentLife #RaisingKids #ParentingWin #ModernParenting #LeadershipGoals #InspireLeadership, #LeadershipDevelopment #BeALeader #LeadershipMatter